Mr Bean, created by Rowan Atkinson and Richard Curtis, first appeared on British television in 1990 and quickly became a phenomenon. The show, which starred Atkinson as the titular character, was a series of sketches featuring Mr Bean in various absurd situations, often involving his struggles to complete simple tasks.
The character of Mr Bean was developed by Atkinson while he was studying for his master's degree in electrical engineering at Oxford University. In an interview with The Telegraph, Atkinson described how he developed the character: "I was just messing around one day, pulling faces in the mirror, and I saw this character emerge. He was sort of pathetic and hopeless, but at the same time sort of endearing. I just started playing around with him and trying out different things, and eventually, he became Mr Bean."
The success of Mr Bean can be attributed to Atkinson's talent for physical comedy and his ability to create memorable and relatable characters. The show also tapped into a particular strain of British humour that had proved popular with audiences both at home and abroad. British comedy is known for its dry wit, irony, and satire, often using social commentary to create humour that is both thought-provoking and hilarious.
Atkinson's talent for physical comedy and his ability to create memorable and relatable characters have made him a household name around the world. In addition to Mr Bean, Atkinson has had a long and successful career in comedy, with notable roles in shows like Blackadder and The Thin Blue Line. These shows, like Mr Bean, showcase the wit and intelligence that is characteristic of British humour.
British comedy has a long and storied history, with roots dating back to the music halls of the Victorian era. Over the years, British comedians have pushed the boundaries of what is considered acceptable, using humour to tackle difficult and controversial topics in a way that is both subversive and entertaining.
Atkinson's influence on comedy extends far beyond Mr Bean, with his work inspiring a generation of comedians around the world. In an interview with The Independent, comedian Russell Brand spoke about how Atkinson's work had influenced him: "Rowan Atkinson is someone who has always been a big inspiration to me...I always liked how he was silly and serious at the same time."
Atkinson's impact on popular culture has also been recognized by the British establishment, with him receiving a CBE in 2013 for his services to drama and charity. In a statement following the award, Atkinson said, "I feel very honoured to receive this recognition...I feel very lucky to have been able to pursue a career that I love and to have been given the opportunities that I have had."
Mr Bean remains hugely popular around the world decades after its initial release. The success of the show is a testament to Atkinson's talent for comedy and his ability to create enduring and beloved characters. Atkinson's work, along with that of other British comedians, has helped to define a unique and irreverent style of humour that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
To explore more British television classics download the worksheet below.
